North Iowa rivalry continues after weekend split

Last year the La Crosse Freeze got over the hump and beat the perennial powerhouse in North Iowa. Head coach Jon Vaillancourt knew coming into 2018 that to compete for the Central Division and Frasier Cup playoffs that he’d have to compete with that Bulls team.

On Friday night in La Crosse the Freeze didn’t look ready to compete. Down four goals it wasn’t until 4:14 remaining that Alec Seeger put the Freeze on the board. Will Graves had 35 total shots but ultimately gave up four in the loss.

Saturday night was a different story, and for multiple reasons. Graves, who picked up a shutout in La Crosse’s first ever franchise victory over North Iowa last season at home, would do so again behind 32 saves and goals from Clayton Lackey and Nathan McComb. This time, however, the shutout took place in North Iowa, a place the Bulls have never been held scoreless in their 7+ years in the league.

The victory is great one for the Freeze veterans that have gone up against their in-division rival multiple times throughout their tenure. It’s a great win for the franchise, Vaillancourt and the fight to win the Central Division in 2018.

Next up the Freeze host the Peoria Mustangs on Thursday (puck drop 7pm) and Friday with a special 12 noon time game. Then they hit the road on Saturday night to take on the Rochester Ice Hawks. Tickets to see the Freeze at the Green Island Ice Arena are just $5!